Holland's Wild Dunes - 2 Part Series
Length: 2 x 52min
Format: UHD/4K
Years of Production: 2025
Directed, produced and filmed:
Ana Luisa Santos
Michael J. Sanderson
Production & Distribution:
Ateles Films
Premiere Broadcasts:
TBD
Synopsis
Episode 1: Sanctuary in the Shifting Sands, is a captivating nature documentary that explores the vibrant and often overlooked ecosystem of the Dutch coastal dunes.This episode follows the intricate lives of various species as they navigate this unique landscape from winter's harsh embrace to spring's renewal.
The journey begins in the depths of winter, where roe deer band together for survival and rabbits prepare for new life amidst the snow. As seasons shift, we witness the incredible migration of sanderlings, the awakening of wood ant colonies, and the return of cormorants to their breeding grounds. Spring unfolds showing ancient bluebell carpets bloom, pollinators buzz among the flowers, and roe deer families face the challenges of raising their young.
The film showcases the delicate balance of this ecosystem, highlighting how Konik horses help shape the dunes, and how foxes and rabbits engage in a perpetual dance of predator and prey. Rare species like the northern dune tiger beetle and the endangered European rabbit demonstrate the dunes' ecological importance.
Through stunning visuals and intimate wildlife moments, this episode reveals how this narrow strip of land between sea and civilisation supports over 7,000 species, which represent more than half of the Netherlands' biodiversity. It also captures the beauty and drama of nature and highlighting the critical role these dunes play in coastal defence and conservation, inviting viewers to appreciate the wonders that exist just beyond the beach.
Episode 2: The Hidden Waters unveils an unknown world along South Holland's coast, where
shifting sands conceal a vital freshwater ecosystem. This episode explores the underground freshwater bubble that not only supplies drinking water to 1,5 million people but also supports over 7,000 species in a delicate balance. Viewers will discover the dynamic dune slacks, shallow depressions that fill with rainwater, creating temporary habitats for diverse wildlife.
From swifts hunting insects to rare lapwings protecting their nests, and from dragonflies to natterjack toads racing against time, this episode showcases the intricate web of life
thriving in these hidden waters.
The narrative follows the wild protagonists further from the hot summers back to the depths of winter. It also delves into the dual role of dune lakes as both wildlife sanctuaries
and infiltration basins for human water needs. Annual ecological assessments reveal the health of this ecosystem through its biodiversity, emphasising the interconnectedness of
all living things.
As the episode unfolds, it highlights the stark contrast between this wild oasis and the nearby bustling cities, showcasing nature's resilience and the critical importance of preserving these unique landscapes for both wildlife and human well-being.
Through stunning visuals and intimate wildlife moments, this episode reveals how this narrow strip of land between sea and civilisation supports over thousands of species, which represent more than half of the Netherlands' biodiversity.
Sponsors:
Ateles Films would like to thanks to our sponsor Transcontinenta B.V. for providing us the Tamron lenses, the Mindshift Bags and the Zhiyun Weebill 3 Gimbal that we used on this production.
Distribution:
A 4K version is available for distribution and delivery with original content in 4K+ free of rights worldwide.
Disclaimer
This is a wildlife film where all the characters are pure and wild in their behaviour.
